What happens when a restaurant encourages people to put away their phones and simply talk to each other?

At Bella Italia in North Berwick, Scotland, a simple sign on the door reads: "We do not have Wi-Fi. Talk to each other. Pretend it's 1995." 

That sign caught my attention while I was teaching at Queen Margaret University in Scotland.  But it was what happened inside the restaurant that stayed with me. In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, I talk with Loredana (Lora) Calabrese about family and why creating a place where people truly connect may be more important today than ever.

 I noticed something special about the restaurant. Yes, the food was great but so was the atmosphere. 

 Lora shares the story of her father, Giovanni Mastrocinque, and his journey from Italy to Scotland. Through hard work, he built a successful family business that continues to bring people together more than four decades later.

What struck me most about Lora's story is that Bella Italia isn't really a story about a restaurant. It's a story about people. It's about creating a place where families gather and memories are made.

When I later told local interior designer Emma Cross that I was planning to interview Lora, she said, "That's where everyone goes for celebrations." This simple comment made me even more curious about the story behind Bella Italia and the family who built it.

In this Episode

• The story behind Bella Italia and its founding in 1981

• Giovanni Mastrocinque’s journey from Italy to Scotland

• The famous "No WiFi" sign and why it resonates with customers

• Lessons Lora learned from her father about hard work and perseverance

• Building a family business across generations

• Creating a place where people feel welcome and valued

Connect with Bella Italia

Bella Italia Restaurant
North Berwick, Scotland

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Stories of Change and Creativity explores the experiences that shape us and the lessons we learn along the way. Join host Judy Oskam as she uncovers the moments, experiences, and stories that shape who we become.
 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.

Scottish interior designer and entrepreneur Emma Cross shares how childhood experiences, creativity, travel, and a willingness to say yes shaped her life and career.

Emma Cross knew she wanted to be a designer when she was five years old.

In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, I sit down with Emma Cross, a Scottish interior designer and entrepreneur, to explore the experiences that shaped her life and career.

I first discovered Emma's shop while exploring North Berwick, Scotland. It's a 20 minute train ride from Queen Margaret University, home of our Texas State University Hub program.  Drawn in by the color and design, I was curious about the person behind the brand. Two of my Texas State University students selected Emma's business for our class branding project.  This gave me the perfect reason to reach out to Emma and learn more about her story.

During our interview, Emma talked about growing up in the servants' quarters of a grand estate and how that experience shaped her dreams.  She told me she finds inspiration from travel, family and classic films. Emma was captivated by Doris Day's role as an interior designer in Pillow Talk, an early influence that helped spark a lifelong passion for design.   She still goes back to Doris Day's iconic style for ideas.  

Emma's path to becoming an interior designer and entrepreneur wasn't a straight line.  She didn't get into art school. Instead, she built her career through experience, curiosity and a willingness to say yes when opportunities appeared—even when she didn't have everything figured out. She said yes.  

In This Episode

• How childhood experiences influence creativity and career choices

• Doris Day, Pillow Talk, and early influences on design

• The role of color, creativity, and personal style

• Building an interior design business through experience and opportunity

• Lessons from entrepreneurship and creative business ownership

• Learning to say yes before everything is figured out

Connect with Emma Cross

Interior Designer | Entrepreneur | Creative Business Owner

Website: emmacrossonline.com
Emma Cross - The Store 

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Stories of Change and Creativity explores the experiences that shape us and the lessons we learn along the way. Join host Judy Oskam as she uncovers the moments, experiences, and stories that shape who we become.
 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.

What experiences shape who we become?

In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, Judy Oskam talks with Kelly Engram, educator, Texas State University graduate, and founder of Prairie Fire Hair.

Kelly's journey has been full of challenges and turning points.  As a young single mother, she was busy working and raising her son.   Kelly started college but life got in the way.   She returned and finished school years later, earning both a Bachelor's and Master's degree.  Along the way she discovered a passion for teaching and helping others succeed.

One of the experiences that shaped Kelly most was a personal struggle with hair loss. It challenged her confidence and self-image.   She talks candidly about this during our interview.  And now she helps other women regain their confidence and embrace who they are.

Together, Judy and Kelly explore confidence, identity, and what happens when we give ourselves permission to grow. It's a conversation about discovering passion and finding purpose in a way you never thought possible.  

The Experience That Shaped Kelly

Hair loss challenged Kelly's confidence, self-image, and sense of identity. Through that experience, she learned to give herself grace, embrace change, and stop letting fear define how she saw herself. Her struggle ultimately became the foundation for her purpose and life's work.  

Lessons from Kelly's Journey

• Confidence grows when we stop focusing on how others see us and start accepting ourselves.

• Passion is often discovered through action and experience.

• The experiences we would never choose often become the experiences that shape us most.

• It's never too late to discover a new direction, a new passion, or a new purpose.

Memorable Quote

"The world doesn't see my heart. The world doesn't see my mind...."

— Kelly Engram

About Kelly Engram

Kelly Engram is the founder of Prairie Fire Hair, a Texas-based company dedicated to helping women experiencing hair loss regain confidence through education, personalized support, and luxury wigs. A Texas State graduate, educator, and entrepreneur, Kelly combines lived experience with compassion and expertise to help women navigate issues of identity, confidence, and personal transformation.

CONNECT WITH KELLY

https://prairiefirehair.com/

https://www.instagram.com/prairiefirehair/

https://www.facebook.com/people/Prairie-Fire-Hair/61572911695599/

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Stories of Change and Creativity explores the experiences that shape us and the lessons we learn along the way. Join host Judy Oskam as she uncovers the moments, experiences, and stories that shape who we become.
 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.

Graduation season always makes me reflective. In this first short solo episode from my new Making Life Work series, I share some thoughts from commencement weekend at Texas State University.  The stories unfolding behind every graduate walking across the stage — stories about growth, creativity, and figuring out what comes next.

Our students have experience in journalism and storytelling projects, student media, internships, national competitions, and education abroad courses.  I also reflect on my own unexpected journey from journalism and public relations into higher education.

This episode also features remarks from Texas State University President Kelly Damphousse recognizing graduates, mentors, faculty, family members, and the support systems that help students move forward.

In this Episode

• Graduation and personal growth
• Student success and storytelling
• Internships, study abroad, and leadership experiences
• Reinvention, uncertainty, and career journeys

Thanks for listening to Stories of Change & Creativity — documenting growth and making life work, one story at a time.

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Stories of Change and Creativity explores the experiences that shape us and the lessons we learn along the way. Join host Judy Oskam as she uncovers the moments, experiences, and stories that shape who we become.
 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.

In this Mother’s Day episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, Judy Oskam talks with her daughters, Danielle and Jessica, about adoption, family, and experiences that shape identity and creativity.

Judy reflects on the decision to adopt from China.  She shares how motherhood changed her understanding of creativity and personal growth.

Dani and Jess share their perspective on parenting, identity, and what it means to grow together across generations. They also talk about foster families, adoption stories, and the Chinese belief in the “red thread of fate” — the invisible connection between people who are meant to find one another.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How adoption shaped Judy’s journey to motherhood
• Lessons children teach parents about creativity and perspective
• Reflections on infertility, IVF, and adoption
• The meaning behind the “red thread of fate”

Memorable Comments

• “There’s no rulebook when it comes to parenting.”
• “Maybe we all have red threads in our lives.”
• "I always like to say that in every lifetime I think that you're my mother."
  - Jess

If you enjoy conversations about adoption, motherhood, famil, and personal growth, this episode is for you.

Follow Danielle Oskam on Instagram: @danioskam

Follow Jessica Oskam on Instagram: @jessicaoskam

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Stories of Change and Creativity explores the experiences that shape us and the lessons we learn along the way. Join host Judy Oskam as she uncovers the moments, experiences, and stories that shape who we become.
 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.

How innovation is transforming Texas—and where the biggest opportunities are emerging.

In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I had the chance to talk with entrepreneur Justin McKenzie, host of The Building Texas Show. We explore innovation across Texas—from small towns to major cities—and discuss workforce development and emerging industries.

Justin shares insights from his career journey, along with lessons from interviewing leaders across the state.

This episode is perfect for anyone interested in innovation and career opportunities in Texas.

You’ll Learn

• Where innovation is happening across Texas
• Why workforce development matters for future jobs
• How local leaders shape economic growth
• About Justin's passion for Texas and Texas State University 
• Advice for entrepreneurs and students

Key Takeaways

• Opportunity exists across Texas—not just in big cities
• Strong communities and leadership drive innovation
• The future of work is evolving quickly
• Success starts with taking action and learning as you go

About Justin

Justin McKenzie is an entrepreneur and host of The Building Texas Show, a podcast focused on highlighting innovation and economic development across Texas. He is a two-time Texas State graduate with experience in manufacturing, startups, and workforce strategy.

• Follow Justin McKenzie on LinkedIn
  
  
• Visit The Building Texas Show website
  
  
• Subscribe on YouTube

This interview was recorded at Live Oak Studios on the campus of Texas State University. 

Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!

Stories of Change and Creativity explores the experiences that shape us and the lessons we learn along the way. Join host Judy Oskam as she uncovers the moments, experiences, and stories that shape who we become.
 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.

What does it really mean to solve a problem in the age of AI?

In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, I sat down with Dr. Aniruddha Bora, assistant professor of computer science at Texas State University, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we think about problem solving.  I met Dr. Bora when I moderated a panel at South by Southwest (SXSW) at Texas House as part of the Texas State University Global Innovation Roundup.

From his early interest in science in India to his work in applied mathematics, Dr. Bora shares how interdisciplinary thinking can lead to meaningful innovation. I found Bora to be smart, kind and a joy to be around.  His energy is contagious.    

Key Takeaways

• Problem solving starts with the right questions—not just the right tools
• AI is most powerful when combined with mathematics and real-world data
• Innovation often happens at the intersection of disciplines
• Understanding what you don’t know is essential to learning
• The future of education is about guiding curiosity, not just delivering answers

Why This Episode Matters

As AI becomes more integrated into everyday life, the ability to think critically and solve meaningful problems is more important than ever. This episode offers a fresh perspective on how curiosity and creativity can drive real-world impact.

Learn more about Dr. Aniruddha Bora, assistant professor of computer science at Texas State University, and his work in artificial intelligence and real-world applications here.

This podcast episode was recorded at the Live Oak Podcast Studio at Texas State University.  Photo by Texas House. 

🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Please share it with a colleague, student, or friend who’s interested in AI and creative problem solving.

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Stories of Change and Creativity explores the experiences that shape us and the lessons we learn along the way. Join host Judy Oskam as she uncovers the moments, experiences, and stories that shape who we become.
 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.

How does experiential learning prepare college students for real-world careers? 

At Texas State, journalism students don’t just study reporting — they do it. They cover major news events and interview real people.  Students report on impactful stories like the aftermath of the school shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde and the 2025 deadly Central Texas flooding.  

 In this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity, Judy Oskam talks with Dino Chiecchi, associate professor of practice at Texas State University.  He's a veteran journalist with more than 30 years of newsroom experience. 

During our conversation, we explore how classroom instruction meets professional practice.  We talk about why mentorship and real-world experience matter in higher education.

What You’ll Learn

• Why experiential learning helps students build professional skills
 • How expert faculty elevate classroom learning
 • The importance of mentoring in developing confidence and resilience
 • How students can publish meaningful work before they graduate
 • Why telling the stories about real people matters

The articles written by Texas State University students were published in the Austin American Statesman and the Texas Standard.  Check out the SJMC website for more information.  

You can learn more about Professor Chiecchi's book here:
Josue: A Young Man's Life Lost to Suicide.  

Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!

Stories of Change and Creativity explores the experiences that shape us and the lessons we learn along the way. Join host Judy Oskam as she uncovers the moments, experiences, and stories that shape who we become.
 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.

If you’re a high-achieving professional who feels successful everywhere except your health, this episode of Stories of Change and Creativity might be for you.  I can certainly relate!

Many driven professionals excel in their careers but struggle with health in midlife because they apply the same optimization mindset that works at work to their bodies. In this episode, Judy Oskam talks with Tony Sherock, Certified Personal Trainer— Health Behavior Specialist and Tiny Habits® Certified Coach.  He explains how identity-based habits can create lasting health change.

This conversation reframes health as part of who you are, not another project to manage. You’ll walk away with practical insights you can apply immediately to rebuild your health in a way that lasts.

What You’ll Learn

• Why high-achieving professionals often struggle with health in midlife
• Why traditional diets and fitness plans fail busy professionals over 40
• The role identity plays in health behavior change
• How tiny, adaptable habits create lasting health improvements

About Tony Sherock

Tony Sherock is a Health Behavior Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, and Tiny Habits® Certified Coach. He is the founder of Habits To Health – Tony Sherock, LLC, and works with busy midlife professionals (40+) who are juggling demanding careers, family life, and caregiving responsibilities.

Tony helps high achievers rebuild their health by shifting away from fast, optimized effort toward slow, sustainable habit change that fits real life. His work is informed by a background in broadcasting and higher education, as well as his own personal health transformation—from being pre-diabetic and on multiple medications to creating lasting change through behavior science.

https://www.habitstohealthcoach.com/

You can find Tony Sherock on Facebook, Instagram, & Skool:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1605709083060117

https://www.instagram.com/tonysherock_habits_to_health/

https://www.skool.com/the-habit-hub

Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!

Stories of Change and Creativity explores the experiences that shape us and the lessons we learn along the way. Join host Judy Oskam as she uncovers the moments, experiences, and stories that shape who we become.
 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.

If you’re a fan of Outlander, the historical fiction series set in Scotland, like I am, this episode is for you. In this conversation, I talk with Dr. Alexandra “Alex” Dold, a literary scholar and historian known as the “Doctor of Outlander,” about her academic journey and career path.  We discuss how historical fiction can become public history — inviting people to connect with history beyond textbooks and classrooms.

During this episode, you’ll learn how Outlander and other historical fiction can build bridges between fans, public audiences, and academic inquiry. Alex also shares insights from her own path — from studying literature in Germany to completing a PhD in Scotland on Outlander as public history.  You'll hear how that journey reshaped her understanding of how stories can make reading and history more accessible for everyone.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• How historical fiction functions as public history
• Why stories like Outlander make history feel accessible and emotionally resonant
• Dr. Alex Dold’s academic journey — from pursuing language and literature to transforming it into public-facing scholarship
• Practical ways listeners can continue engaging with history and reading outside formal academic spaces

Why This Matters

Historical fiction often gets dismissed as “just entertainment.” Alex’s work reframes it as public history.  It's a way that everyday readers and viewers connect with the past and develop meaningful questions. This episode invites listeners to:

• see the Outlander stories they love as gateways to learning,
• recognize curiosity as a valid path to knowledge, and
• think about how reading habits can lead to deeper exploration.

Guest Info

Dr. Alexandra “Alex” Dold is a literary scholar and historian whose research focuses on historical fiction as public history. She completed her PhD in history examining the Outlander novels at the University of the Highlands and Islands, Centre for History, Dornoch.  Dr. Dold explored the role of Outlander in shaping how people engage with history beyond traditional academic spaces. 

You can find out more about Dr. Dold and her scholarship below:
https://alexdold.com/

Outlander

Dr. Diana Gabaldon is the author of the award-winning The Outlander series.  You can learn more about about the series and Diana here.  

The final season of Outlander airs in March 2026.

Did you enjoy this episode? send me a text!

Stories of Change and Creativity explores the experiences that shape us and the lessons we learn along the way. Join host Judy Oskam as she uncovers the moments, experiences, and stories that shape who we become.
 
Do you have an idea for a guest interview?  Please let me know. 

Check out my TEDx talk.  Why you should take action - then figure it out.